Flat Bar Strips Rigid

Plastic flat bar strips explained

Rigid plastic flat bar strips, also known as plastic strips, PVC strips or hard plastic strips, are simple extruded profiles made from rigid PVC. Each strip has two dimensions: width and thickness, and is designed to provide a clean, consistent flat surface. These profiles are supplied in standard 3 metre lengths (25 per pack) and are suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.

What are plastic flat strips made from?

All of our rigid plastic flat bar strips are manufactured from external grade rigid PVC, a stable material that does not contain plasticisers. This ensures that the strips retain their shape over time and can be used both indoors and outdoors. Rigid PVC strips have a smooth surface that can be cut to size and fixed using screws, glue or double-sided tape, depending on the application. Although our guide on how to fix plastic angle trim focuses on angles, the same fixing methods can also be applied to plastic flat strips. As every situation is different we recommend that you take advice from an adhesive specialist as to which type of tape or glue to use. Our data sheets provide further information about the materials we use to manufacture our rigid PVC profiles.

Alternative names for plastic strips

Depending on the industry, these products may be referred to as plastic flat bars, plastic cover strips, or PVC flat strips. Regardless of terminology, all describe the same type of plastic extrusion: a flat, rectangular PVC profile available in multiple widths and thicknesses.

Rigid plastic strips vs. flexible plastic strips

Rigid PVC strips

Rigid plastic strips are the most commonly used type of plastic strips. Manufactured from external grade rigid PVC, they are designed for use in both interior and exterior settings. They are sold in 75 metre packs, each pack contains 25 x 3 metre lengths. The rigid PVC lengths are similar to a ruler. The thinner strips may have some flexibility along the 3 metre lengths without losing their overall rigidity.

Flexible plastic strips

Flexible PVC strips are available for curved or contoured surfaces, although they are less often used than rigid PVC strips. They are sold in 75 metre packs, each pack containing 3 x 25 metres. This material is softer and these flexible strips are supplied in coiled form. Customers who have not used flexible plastic before are advised to request a sample to ensure it suits their intended application. Please also read our blog about rigid vs. flexible plastic.

Common uses for plastic flat bar strips

Edge protection and finishing applications

Plastic strips are widely used to cover or protect exposed edges on boards, panels and displays. They provide a tidy and professional finish while reducing wear or marking along edges.

Spacing and covering applications

These hard plastic strips are also used as spacers, packers and cover strips to create separation between materials or to hide joins and gaps. Their flat, even surface makes them suitable for a range of layout and assembly tasks.

Used across many industries

Because plastic flat bar strips are so versatile, they are used by customers in a wide variety of industries. From construction and manufacturing to signage, transport and display projects. In many cases, at MKM Extrusions we do not know the final use, as the strips are adapted for hundreds of different practical applications.

Plastic strips with square and round edges

At MKM Extrusions we offer plastic flat strips with both square and round edges. We offer more square edge options than rounded edge. All sizes are available with square edges, while only some sizes are also produced with round edges. 

Square edge plastic strips

Square edge plastic strips have straight edges, creating a precise and uniform edge that aligns neatly with flat surfaces. This is the standard option and is used where a straight finish is required.

Round edge plastic strips

Round edge PVC strips have slightly curved corners that produce a softer appearance. They are commonly chosen for visible or decorative applications where a smoother edge is preferred.

Choosing between square and round edges

Both edge types serve similar functions. The decision depends on the desired finish and the level of edge definition required for your project. Samples of each are available upon request to help compare both options.

Available sizes and dimensions of plastic flat strips

How to read the measurements

Each plastic strip is defined by two measurements: width and thickness. For example, a 25mm x 3mm plastic flat bar indicates a strip that is 25 millimetres wide and 3 millimetres thick. All sizes are measured externally.

Range of sizes available

Our standard PVC strip range includes many options, from narrow 6mm widths up to 142mm, with thicknesses of 1.5mm to 27mm depending on the width. Each strip is supplied in 3 metre lengths, with 25 lengths per 75 metre pack.

Colours and finish options for plastic strips

Standard colours: black and white

Our plastic strips are available in white and black, which are the most frequently requested colours for rigid PVC profiles. Both finishes have a smooth, even surface suitable for most interior and exterior uses.

Custom colours for larger production runs

If you require a specific colour, custom plastic extrusion is possible for larger orders. We can match to RAL or Pantone colour systems. A higher minimum meterage is required, typically around 2000 metres.

Packaging and ordering details for PVC strips

Pack sizes and lengths

Rigid PVC flat bar strips are packed in 75 metre quantities, consisting of 25 x 3 metre lengths. Flexible strips are also packed in 75 metre quantities, and are supplied as 3 x 25 metre coils. We do not sell smaller packs in order to keep production and packing processes efficient and to maintain competitive pricing across our full range of plastic strips.

Consistent stock and replenishment processes

All plastic strip profiles are manufactured in-house at our UK factory. MKM Extrusions operates under the British Quality Standard ISO 9001:2015 and Environmental Standard ISO 14001:2015 accreditations, ensuring consistent production quality and responsible manufacturing. Our production systems are designed to keep stock levels as stable as possible and to replenish items relatively quickly. We work 24 hours during the working week in order to achieve this. Clear indication of ‘delivery by’ dates can be seen on the checkout page, this is real time information and is based on current stock levels.

How to order

All standard plastic strips can be ordered directly from our online shop. Orders are processed through our UK factory, ensuring reliable delivery throughout mainland Britain.

Request a plastic strip sample

Why request a sample?

Requesting a free sample allows you to confirm the dimensions, thickness and edge shape before placing a full order. This helps ensure the selected plastic strip suits your project requirements.

How to request a sample

We have short pre-cut samples available for all the products which are listed on our online shop. You can easily request samples by emailing us at [email protected] with the product codes you require and your name and address. This service is free of charge.